Anwar Urges US Intervention For Release Of GSF Activists Detained By Israel

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced plans to contact United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio to demand immediate intervention and action for the release of all activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), including Malaysians, who were detained by Israeli forces.

Describing the Zionist regime’s actions as a “collapse of humanitarian values”, Anwar condemned the detention of international activists and the blocking of Gaza-bound humanitarian aid.

“As of this afternoon, I’ve held discussions with the Presidents of Türkiye and Egypt, as well as the Prime Minister of Qatar, seeking their support in pressuring for the release of Malaysian volunteers and activists.

“My team and I are also in close contact with other counterparts, including the US Secretary of State, demanding immediate intervention and action without delay,” Anwar said in a video message posted on his official Facebook page today.

According to the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre (SNCC), 15 Malaysian activists from the GSF mission were confirmed to have been detained by Israeli forces as of 3.30 pm today, after their boats were intercepted en route to Gaza.

Anwar emphasised that Malaysia will not remain silent when the rights and dignity of its people are being violated and trampled upon.

“The so-called ‘offence’ of the GSF mission (as claimed by the Israeli forces) is rooted in compassion and humanitarian principles, helping the weak, the hungry, and the sick, including women and children,” he said.

“If even that cannot be done, then our humanitarian values mean nothing. Once again, I pray to Allah SWT for an end to the tyranny of the Israeli regime, the release of our people, and for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza and all of Palestine without obstruction,” he added.

GSF involves more than 500 activists from 44 countries sailing to Gaza as a symbol of solidarity and an effort to break the Israeli blockade.

The humanitarian mission has drawn global attention, with participation from international figures including climate activist Greta Thunberg, Hollywood actress Susan Sarandon, former Mayor of Barcelona Ada Colau, four Italian Members of Parliament, and Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela.

-- BERNAMA